Nakuru County should always be at the centre of any discussion about athletics in Kenya, Governor Susan Kihika has said.
She said Nakuru has produced some of the best athletes in the world like Faith Kipyegon and Geoffrey Kirui who have continued to place the country on the global map.
Speaking during the launch of this year’s Nakuru Stan-Bic Half Marathon today, Kihika said her administration would build top-class sports facilities and allow the youth to grow their talents.
“One of those facilities is Afraha Stadium which had stalled. The contractor has been asked to complete construction within the shortest time or risk being kicked out of the project,” she said.
Kihika promised to seek collaborations with development partners and construct modern stadiums in each of the 11 sub-counties in the region.
She commended the private sector who including the Nakuru Business Association, Nakuru Manufacturers Association and stakeholders in the tourism industry for participating in most of the County Government’s agendas.
The Governor who was accompanied by Stan-Bic Bank Chief Executive, Charles Mudiwa, her deputy, David Kones, and County Executive Committee Member for Youth, Gender, Culture, Sports and Social Services, Sylvia Onyango Sports was optimistic that the partnership would move the region forward.
She thanked the title sponsors, Stan-Bic Bank for choosing to support upcoming athletes and collaborating with the county in organizing the event which also showcases the county in terms of sports tourism.
She observed that many sponsors tend to support other games such as football and rugby while leaving athletics behind.
“Last year, the event attracted more than 2,000 people from as far as Uganda and the organisers are hopeful that the number can double this time around and continue growing over the years,” said Governor Kihika.
She challenged Athletics Kenya, South Rift branch to mobilise athletes from Bomet, Narok, Laikipia, Kericho, Kajiado, Uasin Gishu, and all the other parts of Kenya and beyond.
“Nakuru City Half Marathon might be upgraded to a full marathon next and eventually become an international event,” she said.
Kihika added that there was a family category for the 5 kilometre race and urged residents to take advantage of the day by bringing their children along to participate and have fun.
“Families from other areas of the country can also come with their families and let the little ones enjoy the great facilities in the city and the major tourist attractions within a short distance of the town as the parents participate in the race,” she said.
Mudiwa said the bank would create a long partnership with Nakuru County Government in supporting athletics.
“Nakuru was Stan-Bic’s natural choice because the bank was readily welcomed when it came up with the proposal and the town’s scenic beauty and its centrality,” he said.
He added that besides being a focal point in the country, the city had the capacity to hold big crowds in terms of hotels.
Mudiwa said it was unfortunate that Kenya did not have an international marathon despite being home to the best marathoners in the world.
